In an ambitious move to elevate nutritional standards among school children, the Indian government has announced the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman scheme. With an allocation of Rs 1.31 trillion, this initiative integrates and expands upon the existing Mid Day Meal scheme, targeting approximately 118 million children across classes 1 to 8 in government and government-aided schools nationwide.
Strategic Implementation and Features
The scheme, which spans from 2021-22 to 2025-26, aims to provide hot-cooked meals to elementary students, including those in pre-primary classes. A novel feature of this scheme is the introduction of social audits across all districts, ensuring transparency and accountability. Additionally, the scheme emphasizes local economic development by encouraging the use of locally sourced nutritious food items and the establishment of ‘school nutrition gardens’ to foster community involvement.
Tithi Bhojan and Mid-Day Meal Expansion
The PM Poshan Scheme also promotes the ‘Tithi Bhojan’ initiative, aimed at enhancing community participation by providing special meals on festivals and occasions. This approach not only nurtures a sense of cultural inclusivity among children but also improves the quality of meals provided. Reflecting on the history of the Mid-Day Meal scheme, this expansion is a testament to the government’s commitment to addressing nutritional challenges faced by school-aged children.
Future Prospects and Budgetary Allocations
Looking ahead, the government’s budgetary focus on education and nutrition is evident in the allocation of Rs 73,008 crore for school education in FY25, despite it being the lowest percentage of the total budget in recent years. The Samagra Shiksha scheme receives a significant boost, with Rs 37,500 crore earmarked, highlighting the emphasis on comprehensive education. The PM Poshan Scheme itself sees an increase in allocation, signifying the government’s intent to strengthen the nutritional foundation of India’s future generations.
As the nation approaches the General Elections of 2024, the spotlight returns to the effectiveness and impact of government schemes launched over the past decade. With the PM Poshan Scheme at the forefront, the journey towards improving child nutrition and educational outcomes continues, shaping a healthier and more educated future for India.